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Murphy returns to left field

Murphy returns to left field

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By T.R. Sullivan
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MLB.com |

ANAHEIM -- David Murphy was back in left field for the Rangers on Tuesday, one game after having a rough night in right field. Murphy, replacing Nelson Cruz in right, misplayed two fly balls, and manager Ron Washington decided he was better off in left. Engel Beltre, who started in left field on Monday, was in right field on Tuesday.

"I'm just trying to get everybody comfortable," Washington said. "David has played right field before, and he's comfortable out there, but he's more comfortable in left field. I trust David no matter where I put him."

Beltre played mostly center field in the Minor Leagues but has played both corner spots. Leonys Martin is the Rangers' regular center fielder, but Washington likes to shift him to a corner when Craig Gentry is in the lineup. Washington said Gentry is his best defensive center fielder.

Washington said that when Martin does play on the corner, it will most likely be in right field. Martin has played six games in left and 16 in right, and Washington believes he is better in right.

"He's better at seeing the ball from center toward right," Washington said. "He's not as comfortable in left and I don't want him out there scared. I want him playing with aggressiveness."

The Rangers want to look at Joey Butler in left field. He played mainly right field in the Minor Leagues because he has an excellent throwing arm. But he could be an alternative in left for Murphy against left-handers.